The number of people smoking has fallen to 13% in 2021, the lowest level on record, official figures have revealed.
The latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show 6.6 million people smoked in 2021 across the UK, the lowest proportion of current smokers since records started in 2011.
The number of smokers who have quit continues to increase, with a record high of 66.9% saying they quit in 2021.
James Tucker, data and analysis for social care and health division at the ONS, said: The decrease in the proportion of current smokers may be partly attributed to the increase in vaping and e-cigarette use. Data from the Opinions and Lifestyle Survey has shown regular use of a vaping device has increased in 2021 and the highest usage was among those aged 16 to 24 years.’
Council leaders have welcomed the figures but warned that stopping smoking is the biggest thing to do to improve the nation's health.
'Smoking is still the leading cause of preventable death in England, said David Fothergill, chairman of the Local Government Association’s Community Wellbeing Board. 'Every day more than 200 people in England die from smoking and 280 children under 16 have their first cigarette. Two thirds of those smoking one cigarette will go on to become addicted, taking on average thirty attempts before they successfully quit.
'Reducing smoking rates among the remaining 5.4 million smokers in England is the single biggest thing we can do to improve the nation’s health.'
